Enhanced heat transfer for housings

ABSTRACT

An apparatus that has housing for containing objects. The housing has two heat-conducting partial-boundaries having an interface between them. The apparatus also has a medium for enhancing heat transfer across the interface.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of housingsfor containing electronic components and particularly to increasing thecooling of electronic components contained within housings formed bybutting two partial-shells together by enhancing the heat transferacross the abutment.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Electronic components may be located in housings in manyapplications. For example, electronic components may be housed inhousings to protect them against harsh environments, vandalism, or thelike. A particular example involves using housings to protect electroniccomponents from the weather and electromagnetic interference, such aslocating various electronic components used for cable television withinhousings suspended from cables strung between utility poles. Otherexamples involve using housings to protect electronic components fromharmful phenomena associated with locating electronic componentsunderground. It is often desirable that these housings facilitateperiodic servicing and/or troubleshooting. Butting two partial-shellstogether to form a closed shell-like housing is one method that is oftenused to form housings that facilitate periodic servicing and/ortroubleshooting.

[0003] If electronic components generate an appreciable amount of heat,their temperatures may exceed thermal-failure limits and subsequentlyfail. The problem of thermal failure may be aggravated when electroniccomponents are contained within a housing. Properly configuring thehousing so that electronic-component temperatures are maintained belowthermal-failure limits is one way to guard against the thermal failureof housed electronic components. Some configurations may involveconstructing housings from heat conducting materials and thermallycoupling the electronic components to the interior surfaces of thehousing so that the heat is conducted into the housing and subsequentlytransferred to external environments, such as outside air. In theseconfigurations, the heat transfer rate (cooling-rate), for a givenhousing material, is proportional to the amount of exterior surface areathat is available for heat transfer.

[0004] In applications where it is desirable to house electroniccomponents in housings formed by butting two partial-shells together, itmay be desirable to attach electronic components to the interior of oneof the partial-shells only. Unfortunately, the available heat transfersurface area is greatly reduced in these configurations. Moreover, thejunction between the two-partial shells raiseselectromagnetic-interference and weather issues.

[0005] For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated belowwhich will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading andunderstanding the present specification, there is a need in the art forhousings formed by butting two partial-shells together that maintain thetemperatures of heat generating electronic components contained thereinbelow thermal failure limits and that provide adequate protectionagainst other harmful influences.

SUMMARY

[0006] The above-mentioned problems with cooling electronic componentscontained within housings formed by butting two partial-shells togetherand other problems are addressed by embodiments of the present inventionand will be understood by reading and studying the followingspecification. Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatusthat includes a housing for containing objects. The housing has twoheat-conducting partial-boundaries having an interface between them. Theapparatus has a medium for enhancing heat transfer across the interface.Enhancing the interfacial heat transfer increases the amount of exteriorsurface area that is available for heat transfer by making the exteriorsurface area of both partial boundaries available for heat transfer.Therefore, enhancing the interfacial heat transfer will increase therate at which the objects are cooled.

[0007] More particularly, in one embodiment the heat-transfer enhancingmedium is a thermally conducting material disposed between thepartial-boundaries that has a conformability enabling substantiallyvoid-free contact. In another embodiment, the apparatus has anelectromagnetic-interference seal that is disposed between the partialboundaries in addition to the thermally conducting material. In anotherembodiment, the apparatus has an electromagnetic-interference seal and aweather-seal that are disposed between the partial boundaries inaddition to the thermally conducting material. In another embodiment,the thermally conducting material is weatherproof. In anotherembodiment, the thermally conducting material is weatherproof andweather sealing. In another embodiment, the thermally conductingmaterial is weatherproof and weather sealing and protects againstelectromagnetic interference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008]FIG. 1 is a perspective view demonstrating a first embodiment ofthe present invention.

[0009]FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of region A of FIG. 1 demonstratingembodiment A1 of the present invention.

[0010]FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of region A of FIG. 1 demonstratingembodiment A2 of the present invention.

[0011]FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of region A of FIG. 1 demonstratingembodiment A3 of the present invention.

[0012]FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of region A of FIG. 1 demonstratingembodiment A4 of the present invention.

[0013]FIG. 6 is a perspective view demonstrating a second embodiment ofthe present invention.

[0014]FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of region B of FIG. 6 demonstratingembodiment B1 of the present invention.

[0015]FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of region B of FIG. 6 demonstratingembodiment B2 of the present invention.

[0016]FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of region B of FIG. 6 demonstratingembodiment B3 of the present invention.

[0017]FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of region B of FIG. 6 demonstratingembodiment B4 of the present invention.

[0018]FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of region B of FIG. 6 demonstratingembodiment B5 of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown byway of illustration specific illustrative embodiments in which theinvention may be practiced. These embodiments are described insufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice theinvention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may beutilized and that logical, mechanical and electrical changes may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in alimiting sense.

[0020] The present invention addresses cooling objects contained withinhousings formed by butting two partial-shells together, where at leastone of the objects is thermally coupled to one of the partial-shells. Insuch configurations, each partial-shell has a face, and thepartial-shells are butted together by butting the faces together,forming an interface between the faces.

[0021] Heat is conducted from the object into the partial-shell (firstpartial-shell) to which it is thermally coupled. The heat is thenconducted within the first partial-shell, across the interface, and intothe other partial-shell (second partial-shell) that acts as a heat sinkfor the first partial-shell. As the heat is conducted through the firstpartial-shell, across the interface, and through the second partialshell, it is also convected away from the exterior surfaces of therespective shells, with the rate of heat transfer being proportional tothe exterior surface area.

[0022] The heat transfer across the interface, and ultimately from theobject, is proportional to the thermal contact area between the faces ofthe first and second partial-shells. For example, if the thermal contactarea is zero, i.e., no thermal contact between the faces, substantiallyall of the heat is convected away from the exterior surface of the firstpartial-shell. In other words, the amount of exterior surface areaavailable for heat transfer is limited to that of first partial-shell.Establishing thermal contact between the faces enables heat to beconvected through exterior surface area of both partial-shells.

[0023] The entire exterior surface area of the second shell is notnecessarily an effective heat transfer area, however. For example, ifthe thermal contact area between the faces is fairly small, thus makingthe thermal contact somewhat poor, the effective heat transfer area ofthe second partial-shell will be limited to the portion of the exteriorsurface area adjacent the interface, while substantially no heat isconvected through remaining exterior surface area. As the thermalcontact area is increased, the heat transfer across the interface, andthus from the object, increases. This increases the portion of the totalexterior surface area of the second partial-shell that is effective heattransfer area. The thermal contact area between the faces can beincreased by substantially eliminating the voids that form when thefaces are butted together and by increasing the area of each of thefaces.

[0024] Apparatus 100, shown in FIG. 1, demonstrates a first embodimentof the present invention. Apparatus 100 includes housing 102 adapted tocontain at least one object 104, such as an electronic component.Housing 102 includes a pair of partial-shells 106 that are buttedtogether to form two heat-conducting partial-boundaries havinginterfacial boundary 107 therebetween. As demonstrated in FIG. 1, atleast one object 104 may be mounted on an interior surface of one ofpartial-shells 106 using a suitable method, such as screwing, brazing,bolting, or the like. Any material designed for improving thermalcontact may be disposed between the objects and the partial-shell, suchas T-PLI SERIES 200, manufactured by Thermagon, Inc. or THERM-A-GAPT174, manufactured by Chomerics.

[0025] Partial-shells 106 may be of any material having suitable thermalproperties that is suitable for outdoor use, such as aluminum. Hinge 110may be disposed as shown in FIG. 1 to pivotally attach shells 106together. Partial-shells 106 may be selectively secured together usingany suitable arrangement, such as cap screws, nuts and bolts, threadedstuds and nuts, clamps, or the like. In one embodiment, cap screws, nutsand bolts, threaded studs and nuts, clamps, or the like may replacehinge 110.

[0026]FIGS. 2 through 5 are enlarged views of encircled region A in FIG.1 that illustrate embodiments A1 through A4, respectively. Each of FIGS.2 through 5 demonstrates that each of partial-shells 106 has a face 106a. Apparatus 100 addresses the issue of increasing the thermal contactarea between faces 106 a by substantially eliminating the voids thatform when faces 106 a are butted together.

[0027] In embodiment A1, material 112A1 is sandwiched between faces 106a, as shown in FIG. 2, to substantially eliminate the voids that formwhen faces 106 a are butted together. Material 112A1 may be of anymaterial suitable to thermally couple partial-shells 106 together, suchas an elastomer having a conformability sufficient to createsubstantially void-free contact between faces 106 a and having suitablethermal conductivity, e.g., T-PLI SERIES 200, manufactured by Thermagon,Inc. or THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. In one embodiment,material 112A1 may also be weatherproof, such as THERM-A-GAP T174,manufactured by Chomerics. In another embodiment, material 112A1 mayalso be weather sealing and weatherproof, such as THERM-A-GAP T174,manufactured by Chomerics. In another embodiment, material 112A1 is athermally and an electrically conductive weather sealing andweatherproof material that seals against electromagnetic interferenceand the weather.

[0028] The creation of interface 107 by butting partial-shells 106together also gives rise to weather and electromagnetic-interferenceissues. Embodiments A2 through A4 each address the issue of increasingthe thermal contact area between faces 106 a by substantiallyeliminating the voids that form when faces 106 a are butted together andthe electromagnetic-interference and weather issues by providing forprotecting the interface against electromagnetic interference and theweather.

[0029] Embodiment A2 is demonstrated in FIG. 3. Material 112A2 issandwiched between faces 106 a to substantially eliminate the voids thatform when faces 106 a are butted together and to protect against theweather. FIG. 3 shows channel 114A2 interiorly of material 112A2 formedby groove 116A2 in each of faces 106 a. Seal 118A2 is disposed withinchannel 114A2 to protect against electromagnetic interference. Eachgroove 116A2 forms a continuous loop around the perimeter of housing102. Seal 118A2 may be any seal suitable for sealing againstelectromagnetic interference, such as an electrically conductiveelastomer (e.g., of the types manufactured by Chomerics, Tecknit, andInstrument Specialties for electromagnetic interference shielding)adapted to be disposed within channel 114A2. Material 112A2 may be ofany weatherproof, weather-sealing material suitable to thermally couplepartial-shells 106 together, such as an elastomer having aconformability sufficient to create substantially void-free contactbetween faces 106 a and having suitable thermal conductivity, e.g.,THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. Material 112A2 alsoprotects seal 118A2 against the weather.

[0030] In one embodiment, material 112A2 is sandwiched between faces 106a interiorly and exteriorly of seal 118A2. In another embodiment,material 112A2 may be of any material suitable to thermally couplepartial-shells 106 together, such as an elastomer having aconformability sufficient to create substantially void-free contactbetween faces 106 a and having suitable thermal conductivity, and seal118A2 may be any weatherproof, seal suitable for sealing againstelectromagnetic interference and the weather, such as an electricallyconductive, corrosion resistant elastomer (e.g., CHO-SEAL manufacturedby Chomerics) adapted to be disposed within channel 114A2. In anotherembodiment, material 112A2 may be weatherproof, such as THERM-A-GAPT174, manufactured by Chomerics, and seal 118A2 may be any weatherproofseal suitable for sealing against electromagnetic interference and theweather, such as an electrically conductive, corrosion resistantelastomer (e.g., CHO-SEAL manufactured by Chomerics) adapted to bedisposed within channel 114A2.

[0031] In embodiment A3, material 112A3 is sandwiched between faces 106a, as shown in FIG. 4, to substantially eliminate the voids that formwhen faces 106 a are butted together. FIG. 4 shows channel 114A3interiorly of material 112A3 formed by a groove 116A3 in each of faces106 a. Each of grooves 116A3 forms a continuous loop around theperimeter of housing 102. Seal 118A3 is disposed within channel 114A3 toprotect against electromagnetic interference. Seal 118A3 may be any sealsuitable for sealing against electromagnetic interference, such as anelectrically conductive elastomer (e.g., of the types manufactured byChomerics, Tecknit, and Instrument Specialties for electromagneticinterference shielding) adapted to be disposed within channel 114A3.

[0032]FIG. 4 shows channel 120, exteriorly of material 112A3, formed bya groove 122 in each of faces 106 a. Each of grooves 122 forms acontinuous loop around the perimeter of housing 102. Seal 124 isdisposed within channel 120 to protect against the weather. Seal 124 maybe any seal suitable for sealing the abutment against the weather, suchas silicone rubber adapted to be disposed within channel 120. Material112A3 may be of any material suitable to thermally couple partial-shells106 together, such as an elastomer having a conformability sufficient tocreate substantially void-free contact between faces 106 a and havingsuitable thermal conductivity, e.g., T-PLI SERIES 200, manufactured byThermagon, Inc. or THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. Seal 124also protects seal 118A3 and material 112A3 against the weather. In oneembodiment, material 112A3 is sandwiched between faces 106 a bothinteriorly and exteriorly of channel 114A3.

[0033] In embodiment A4, material 112A4 is sandwiched between faces 106a, as shown in FIG. 5, to substantially eliminate the voids that formwhen faces 106 a are butted together and to protect against the weather.FIG. 5 shows channel 114A4 interiorly of material 112A4 formed by agroove 116A4 in each of faces 106 a. Each of grooves 116A4 forms acontinuous loop around the perimeter of housing 102. A pair of abuttingseals 118A4 is disposed within channel 114A4, as shown, to protectagainst electromagnetic interference. Each of abutting seals 118A4 maybe any seal suitable for sealing the abutment against electromagneticinterference, such as an electrically conductive elastomer (e.g., of thetypes manufactured by Chomerics, Tecknit, and Instrument Specialties forelectromagnetic interference shielding) adapted to be disposed withinchannel 114A4. Material 112A4 may be of any weatherproof, weathersealing material suitable to thermally couple partial-shells 106, suchas an elastomer having a conformability sufficient to createsubstantially void-free contact between faces 106 a and having suitablethermal conductivity, e.g., THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics.Material 112A4 also protects both of abutting seals 118A4 against theweather.

[0034] In one embodiment, each of abutting seals 118A4 may be anyweatherproof seal suitable for sealing against electromagneticinterference and the weather, such as an electrically conductive,corrosion resistant elastomer (e.g., CHO-SEAL manufactured by Chomerics)adapted to be disposed within channel 114A4. In this embodiment,material 112A4 may be of any weatherproof material suitable to thermallycouple partial-shells 106 together, such as an elastomer having aconformability sufficient to create substantially void-free contactbetween faces 106 a and having a suitable thermal conductivity, e.g.,THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. In another embodiment,material 112A4 is sandwiched between faces 106 a exteriorly andinteriorly of channel 114A4.

[0035] To manufacture the first embodiment, partial-shells 106 eachhaving a face 106 a are formed. Hinge 110 may be formed and used topivotally attach partial-shells 106 together, as shown in FIG. 1.Partial shells 106 may be selectively secured to each other using capscrews, nuts and bolts, threaded studs and nuts, clamps or the like. Inone embodiment, cap screws, nuts and bolts, threaded studs and nuts,clamps, or the like may replace hinge 110.

[0036] In embodiment A1, material 112A1 is disposed on either of faces106 a and partial-shells 106 are butted together to compress material112A1 between faces 106 a, as shown in FIG. 2. To manufacture embodimentA2, groove 116A2 is formed in each face 106 a using a single tool setup.Seal 118A2 is disposed in either of grooves 116A2, and material 112A2 isdisposed on either of faces 106 a exteriorly of seal 118A2.Partial-shells 106 are butted together to compress material 112A2between faces 106 a and to compress seal 118A2 within channel 114A2, asshown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, material 112A2 is disposed on eitherof faces 106 a exteriorly and interiorly of seal 118A2, andpartial-shells 106 are butted together to compress material 112A2between faces 106 a and to compress seal 118A2 within channel 114A2.

[0037] To manufacture embodiment A3, groove 116A3 is formed in each face106 a, as shown in FIG. 4, and groove 122 is formed in each in each face106 a, as shown in FIG. 4, using a single tool setup. Seal 118A3 isdisposed in either of grooves 116A3; seal 124 is disposed in either ofgrooves 122; and material 112A3 is disposed on either of faces 106 a.Partial-shells 106 are butted together to compress seal 118A3 withinchannel 114A3, to compress seal 124 within channel 120, and to compressmaterial 112A3 between faces 106 a, as shown in FIG. 4. In oneembodiment, material 112A3 is disposed on faces 106 a both interiorlyand exteriorly of channel 114A3, and partial-shells 106 are buttedtogether to compress material 112A3 between faces 106 a, to compressseal 118A3 within channel 114A3, and to compress seal 124 within channel120.

[0038] To manufacture embodiment A4, groove 116A4 is formed in each face106 a using a single tool setup. Each seal 118A4 is disposed in eachgroove 116A4, and material 112A4 is disposed on either of faces 106 a.Partial-shells 106 are butted together to compress material 112A4between faces 106 a and to butt seals 118A4 together so that they arecompressed within channel 114A4, as shown in FIG. 5. In one embodiment,material 112A4 material 112A4 is disposed on either of faces 106 aexteriorly and interiorly of seals 118A4, and partial-shells 106 arebutted together to compress material 112A4 between faces 106 a and tobutt seals 118A4 together so that they are compressed within channel114A4.

[0039] Apparatus 200, shown in FIG. 6, demonstrates a second embodimentof the present invention. Apparatus 200 includes housing 202 adapted tocontain at least one object 204, such as an electronic component.Housing 202 includes a pair of partial-shells 206 that are buttedtogether to form two heat-conducting partial-boundaries. Each ofpartial-shells 206 has flange 208 extending around its perimeter. Whenpartial-shells 206 and flanges 208 are butted together, interface 207 isformed therebetween and extends beyond the two heat-conductingpartial-boundaries formed by partial-shells 206. As demonstrated in FIG.6, at least one object 204 may be mounted on an interior surface of oneof partial-shells 206 using a suitable method, such as screwing,brazing, bolting, or the like. Any material designed for improvingthermal contact may be disposed between the objects and thepartial-shell, such as T-PLI SERIES 200, manufactured by Thermagon, Inc.or THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics.

[0040] Partial-shells 206 and flanges 208 may be of any material havingsuitable thermal properties that is suitable for outdoor use, such asaluminum. Flanges 208 may be attached to shells 206 by any suitablemethod, such as brazing or during casting. Hinge 210 may be disposed asshown in FIG. 6 to pivotally attach shells 206 together. Partial-shells206 and flanges 208 may be selectively secured together using anysuitable arrangement, such as cap screws, nuts and bolts, threaded studsand nuts, clamps, or the like. In one embodiment, cap screws, nuts andbolts, threaded studs and nuts, clamps, or the like may replace hinge210.

[0041]FIGS. 7 through 11 are enlarged views of encircled region B inFIG. 6 that illustrate embodiments B1 through B5, respectively. Each ofFIGS. 7 through 11 demonstrates that each of partial-shells 206 has aface 206 a and that each of flanges 208 has a face 208 a that isco-planer with and that extends face 206 a. Apparatus 200 addresses theissue of increasing the thermal contact area between faces 206 a bysubstantially eliminating the voids that form when faces 206 a arebutted together and by increasing the area of faces 206 a using faces208 a of flanges 208. Flanges 208 also function as heat sinks andincrease the exterior surface area.

[0042] In embodiment B1, material 212B1 is sandwiched between faces 206a and between faces 208 a of partial-shells 206 and flanges 208,respectively, as shown in FIG. 7. Material 212B1 may be of any materialsuitable to thermally couple partial-shells 206 together and flanges 208together, such as an elastomer having a conformability sufficient tocreate substantially void-free contact between faces 206 a and betweenfaces 208 a of partial-shells 206 and flanges 208, respectively, andhaving suitable thermal conductivity, e.g., T-PLI SERIES 200,manufactured by Thermagon, Inc. or THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured byChomerics. In one embodiment, material 212B1 may also be weatherproof,such as THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. In anotherembodiment material 212B1 may also be weather sealing and weatherproof,such as THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. In anotherembodiment, material 112B1 is a thermally and an electrically conductiveweather sealing and weatherproof material that seals againstelectromagnetic interference and the weather.

[0043] The creation of interface 207 by butting partial-shells 206together also gives rise to weather and electromagnetic-interferenceissues. Embodiments B2 through B5 each address the issue of increasingthe thermal contact area between faces 106 a by substantiallyeliminating the voids that form when faces 206 a are butted together andby increasing the area of faces 206 a using faces 208 a of flanges 208.Embodiments B2 through B5 also each address the issues ofelectromagnetic interference and the weather by providing for protectingthe interface against electromagnetic interference and the weather.

[0044] Embodiment B2 is demonstrated in FIG. 8. Material 212B2 issandwiched between faces 208 a. FIG. 8 shows channel 214B2 interiorly ofmaterial 212B2 formed by groove 216B2 in each of faces 208 a. Seal 218B2is disposed within channel 214B2. Each groove 216B2 forms a continuousloop around the perimeter of housing 202. Seal 218B2 may be any sealsuitable for sealing the abutment against electromagnetic interference,such as an electrically conductive elastomer (e.g., of the typesmanufactured by Chomerics, Tecknit, and Instrument Specialties forelectromagnetic interference shielding) adapted to be disposed withinchannel 214B2. Material 212B2 may be of any weatherproof,weather-sealing material suitable to thermally couple flanges 208together, such as an elastomer having a conformability sufficient tocreate substantially void-free contact between faces 208 a and havingsuitable thermal conductivity, e.g., THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured byChomerics.

[0045] In one embodiment, material 212B2 is sandwiched between faces 206a and between faces 208 a interiorly and exteriorly of seal 218B2. Inanother embodiment, seal 218B2 may be disposed in a channel formed by agroove in each of faces 206 a. In another embodiment, material 212B2 maybe of any material suitable to thermally couple partial-shells 206and/or flanges 208 together, such as an elastomer having aconformability sufficient to create substantially void-free contactbetween faces 206 a/and or 208 a and having suitable thermalconductivity, and seal 218B2 may be any weatherproof, seal suitable forsealing against electromagnetic interference and the weather, such as anelectrically conductive, corrosion resistant elastomer (e.g., CHOSEALmanufactured by Chomerics) adapted to be disposed within channel 214B2.In another embodiment, material 212B2 may be weatherproof, such asTHERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics, and seal 218B2 may be anyweatherproof seal suitable for sealing against electromagneticinterference and the weather, such as an electrically conductive,corrosion resistant elastomer (e.g., CHO-SEAL manufactured by Chomerics)adapted to be disposed within channel 214B2.

[0046] In embodiment B3, material 212B3 is sandwiched between faces 206a and between faces 208 a of partial-shells 206 and flanges 208,respectively, as shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 shows channel 214B3 interiorlyof material 212B3 formed by a groove 216B3 in each of faces 206 a. Eachof grooves 216B3 forms a continuous loop around the perimeter of housing202. Seal 218B3 is disposed within channel 214B3. Seal 218B3 may be anyseal suitable for sealing the abutment against electromagneticinterference, such as an electrically conductive elastomer (e.g., of thetypes manufactured by Chomerics, Tecknit, and Instrument Specialties forelectromagnetic interference shielding) adapted to be disposed withinchannel 214B3.

[0047]FIG. 9 shows channel 220, exteriorly of material 212B3, formed bya groove 222 in each of faces 208 a. Each of grooves 222 forms acontinuous loop around the perimeter of housing 202. Seal 224 isdisposed within channel 220. Seal 224 may be any seal suitable forsealing the abutment against the weather, such as silicone rubberadapted to be disposed within channel 220. Material 212B3 may be of anymaterial suitable to thermally couple flanges 208 together, such as anelastomer having a conformability sufficient to create substantiallyvoid-free contact between faces 206 a and between faces 208 a and havingsuitable thermal conductivity, e.g., T-PLI SERIES 200, manufactured byThermagon, Inc. or THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. In oneembodiment, material 212B3 is sandwiched between faces 206 a bothinteriorly and exteriorly of channel 214B3 and between faces 208 ainteriorly of channel 220. In another embodiment, seal 218B3 is disposedwithin a channel formed by a groove in each of faces 206 a interiorly ofseal 224.

[0048] In embodiment B4, material 212B4 is sandwiched between faces 208a, as shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 shows channel 214B4 interiorly ofmaterial 212B4 formed by a groove 216B4 in each of faces 208 a. Each ofgrooves 216B4 forms a continuous loop around the perimeter of housing202. A pair of abutting seals 218B4 is disposed within channel 214B4, asshown. Each of abutting seals 218B4 may be any seal suitable for sealingthe abutment against electromagnetic interference, such as anelectrically conductive elastomer (e.g., of the types manufactured byChomerics, Tecknit, and Instrument Specialties for electromagneticinterference shielding) adapted to be disposed within channel 214B4.Material 212B4 may be of any weatherproof, weathersealing materialsuitable to thermally couple flanges 208 together, such as an elastomerhaving a conformability sufficient to create substantially void-freecontact between faces 208 a and having suitable thermal conductivity,e.g., THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics.

[0049] In one embodiment, each of abutting seals 218B4 may be anyweatherproof seal suitable for sealing the abutment againstelectromagnetic interference and the weather, such as an electricallyconductive, corrosion resistant elastomer (e.g., CHO-SEAL manufacturedby Chomerics) adapted to be disposed within channel 214B4. In thisembodiment, material 212B4 may be of any weatherproof material suitableto thermally couple flanges 208 together, such as an elastomer having aconformability sufficient to create substantially void-free contactbetween faces 208 a and having a suitable thermal conductivity, e.g.,THERM-A-GAP T174, manufactured by Chomerics. In another embodiment,material 212B4 is sandwiched between faces 206 a and between faces 208 ainteriorly and exteriorly of abutting seals 218B4. In anotherembodiment, abutting seals 218B4 are disposed within channel formed by agroove in each of faces 206 a.

[0050] In embodiment B5, material 212B5 is sandwiched between faces 206a and between faces 208 a of partial-shells 206 and flanges 208,respectively, as shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 11 shows channel 220B5,exteriorly of material 212B5, formed by groove 222B5 in one of faces 208a. Groove 222B5 forms a continuous loop around the perimeter of housing202. Seal 224B5 is disposed within channel 220B5. Seal 224B5 may be anyseal suitable for sealing the abutment against the weather, such assilicone rubber adapted to be disposed within channel 220B5. Material212B5 may be of any material suitable to thermally couple partial-shells206 and flanges 208 together and to seal the abutment againstelectromagnetic interference, such as an electrically conductiveelastomer having a conformability sufficient to create substantiallyvoid-free contact between faces 206 a and between faces 208 a and havingsuitable thermal conductivity, e.g., T412, manufactured by Chomerics andQPAD3, manufactured by Bergquist.

[0051] To manufacture the second embodiment, partial-shells 206 eachhaving a face 206 a and each having a flange 208, including face 208 a,around its perimeter are formed so that face 208 a is co-linear with andextends face 206 a. Hinge 210 may be formed and used to pivotally attachpartial-shells 206 together, as shown in FIG. 6. Partial shells 206 maybe selectively secured to each other using cap screws, nuts and bolts,threaded studs and nuts, clamps or the like. In one embodiment, capscrews, nuts and bolts, threaded studs and nuts, clamps, or the like mayreplace hinge 210.

[0052] In embodiment B1, material 212B1 is disposed on either of theabutting surfaces, i.e., face 206 a and face 208 a, and partial-shells206 are butted together to compress material 212B1 between faces 206 aand between faces 208 a of partial-shells 206 and flanges 208,respectively, as shown in FIG. 7. To manufacture embodiment B2, groove216B2 is formed in each flange 208 using a single tool setup. Seal 218B2is disposed in either of grooves 216B2, and material 212B2 is disposedon either of faces 208 a of flanges 208. Partial-shells 206 are buttedtogether to compress material 212B2 between faces 208 a and to compressseal 218B2 within channel 214B2, as shown in FIG. 8. In one embodiment,material 212B2 is disposed on either of the abutting surfaces, i.e.,face 206 a and face 208 a, interiorly and exteriorly seal 218B2, andpartial-shells 206 are butted together to compress material 212B2between faces 206 a and between faces 208 a and to compress seal 218B2within channel 214B2.

[0053] To manufacture embodiment B3, groove 216B3 is formed in each face206 a, as shown in FIG. 9 using a single tool setup, and groove 222 isformed in each face 208 a, as shown in FIG. 9, using a single toolsetup. Seal 218B3 is disposed in either of grooves 216B3; seal 224 isdisposed in either of grooves 222; and material 212B3 is disposed oneither of faces 208 a. Partial-shells 206 are butted together tocompress seal 218B3 within channel 214B3, to compress seal 224 withinchannel 220, and to compress material 212B3 between faces 208 a, asshown in FIG. 9. In one embodiment, material 212B3 is disposed on eitherof faces 206 a interiorly and exteriorly of channel 214B3 and on eitherof faces 208 a interiorly of channel 220, are butted together tocompress material 212B2 between faces 206 a and between faces 208 a, tocompress seal 218B3 within channel 214B3, and to compress seal 224within channel 220.

[0054] To manufacture embodiment B4, groove 216B4 is formed in each face208 a using a single tool setup. Each of seals 218B4 is disposed in eachof grooves 216B4, and material 212B4 is disposed on either of faces 208a. Partial-shells 206 are butted together to compress material 212B4between faces 208 a and to butt seals 218B4 together so that they arecompressed within channel 214B4, as shown in FIG. 10. In one embodiment,material 212B4 is disposed on either of faces 206 a and on either offaces 208 a interiorly and exteriorly of seals 218B4, and partial-shells206 are butted together to compress material 212B4 between faces 206 aand between faces 208 a and to butt seals 218B4 together so that theyare compressed within channel 214B4.

[0055] To manufacture embodiment B5, groove 222B5 is formed in one offaces 208 a using a single tool setup. Seal 224B5 is disposed in groove222B5 and material 212B5 is disposed on either of faces 206 a and 208 a.Partial-shells 206 are butted together to compress material 212B5between faces 206 a and 208 a and to compress seal 224B5 within channel220B5, as shown in FIG. 11.

Conclusion

[0056] Embodiments of the present invention have been described. Theembodiments provide an apparatus that includes a housing for containingobjects. The housing has two heat-conducting partial-boundaries havingan interface between them. The apparatus has a medium for enhancing heattransfer across the interface.

[0057] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedin this specification, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skillin the art that any arrangement that is calculated to achieve the samepurpose may be substituted for the specific embodiment shown. Thisapplication is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of thepresent invention. For example, housing 102 may be asymmetric aboutinterface 107, i.e., respective partial-shells 106 may have differentshapes and sizes relative to each other. This may also be true forhousing 202 and partial-shells 206.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a housing adapted tocontain objects, the housing comprising two heat-conductingpartial-boundaries having an interface therebetween; and a mediumadapted to enhance heat transfer across the interface.
 2. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein at least one of the objects is thermally coupled toone of the two partial-boundaries.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, whereinthe objects are heat-generating electronic-components.
 4. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the partial-boundaries are selectively secured toeach other.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the partial-boundariesare pivotally attached to each other.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the heat-transfer enhancing medium is a thermally conductivematerial disposed between the partial-boundaries.
 7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the heat-transfer enhancing medium is a thermallyconducting material disposed between the partial-boundaries, thethermally conducting material having a conformability enablingsubstantially void-free contact.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, whereinthe heat-transfer enhancing medium is weatherproof.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 7, wherein the heat-transfer enhancing medium is weatherproof andweather sealing and is adapted to seal the housing against the weather.10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heat-transfer enhancing mediumis a thermally and an electrically conductive material disposed betweenthe partial-boundaries that is adapted to seal the housing againstelectromagnetic interference.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theheat-transfer enhancing medium is a thermally and an electricallyconductive weather sealing and weatherproof material disposed betweenthe partial-boundaries that is adapted to seal the housing againstelectromagnetic interference and the weather.
 12. The apparatus of claim1, further comprising a flange about the perimeter of each of thepartial-boundaries, wherein the interface extends between the respectiveflanges exteriorly of partial-boundaries.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12,wherein the heat-transfer enhancing medium is a thermally conductivematerial disposed between the partial-boundaries and between theflanges.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the heat-transferenhancing medium is a thermally conducting material disposed between thepartial-boundaries and between the flanges, the thermally conductingmaterial having a conformability enabling substantially void-freecontact.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the heat-transferenhancing medium is weatherproof.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, whereinthe heat-transfer enhancing medium is weatherproof and weather sealingand is adapted to seal the housing against the weather.
 17. Theapparatus of claim 12, wherein the heat-transfer enhancing medium is athermally and an electrically conductive material disposed between thepartial-boundaries and the flanges that is adapted to seal the housingagainst electromagnetic interference and further comprising a weatherseal adapted to seal the housing and the heat-transfer enhancing mediumagainst the weather.
 18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein theheat-transfer enhancing medium is a thermally and an electricallyconductive weather sealing and weatherproof material disposed betweenthe partial-boundaries and the flanges that is adapted to seal thehousing against electromagnetic interference and the weather.
 19. Anapparatus for containing objects, comprising: a pair of first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells having first and second faces,respectively, the first and second faces abutting each other; at leastone object thermally coupled to either the first or secondpartial-shell; a seal adapted to seal the apparatus contents againstelectromagnetic interference; and a thermally conducting materialadapted to increase heat transfer between the first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19, whereinthe partial-shells are selectively secured to each other.
 21. Theapparatus of claim 20, wherein the partial-shells are pivotally attachedto each other.
 22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the thermallyconducting material is adapted to increase the heat transfer between thepartial-shells by increasing thermal contact between the first andsecond faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second faces exteriorly of the electromagnetic-interferenceseal.
 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the thermally conductingmaterial is weatherproof.
 24. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein thethermally conducting material is weatherproof and weather sealing and isadapted to seal the apparatus contents and theelectromagnetic-interference-seal against the weather.
 25. The apparatusof claim 19 further comprising a thermally conducting material adaptedto increase thermal contact between the first and second faces, thethermally conducting material sandwiched between the first and secondfaces interiorly of the electromagnetic-interference seal.
 26. Theapparatus of claim 19, wherein the first and second faces each have acontinuous groove about the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells, the respective grooves defining a closed channel in theabutment.
 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the electromagneticinterference seal is disposed in the closed channel.
 28. The apparatusof claim 27, wherein the electromagnetic interference seal isweatherproof and weather sealing and is adapted to seal the apparatuscontents against the weather.
 29. The apparatus of claim 19 furthercomprising first and second flanges about the perimeter of the first andsecond partial-shells, respectively, wherein the first and secondflanges have first and second faces, respectively, wherein the first andsecond flange-faces are co-planer with and extend the first and secondpartial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly of the partial shells,wherein the first and second flange-faces abut each other.
 30. Theapparatus of claim 29, wherein the thermally conducting material isadapted to increase thermal contact between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces or between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces and the first and secondflange-faces or between the first and second partial-shell-faces or thefirst and second flange-faces exteriorly of theelectromagnetic-interference seal.
 31. The apparatus of claim 30,wherein the thermally conducting material is weatherproof.
 32. Theapparatus of claim 30, wherein the thermally conducting material isweatherproof and weather sealing and is adapted to seal the apparatuscontents and the electromagnetic-interference-seal against the weather.33. The apparatus of claim 29, further comprising a thermally conductingmaterial adapted to increase thermal contact between the first andsecond partial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces orbetween the first and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces and the first and secondflange-faces or between the first and second partial-shell-faces or thefirst and second flange-faces interiorly of theelectromagnetic-interference seal.
 34. The apparatus of claim 29,wherein the first and second partial-shell-faces each have a continuousgroove about the perimeter of the first and second partial-shells, therespective grooves defining a closed channel in the partial-shellabutment.
 35. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein the electromagneticinterference seal is disposed in the closed channel.
 36. The apparatusof claim 35, wherein the electromagnetic interference seal isweatherproof and weather sealing and is adapted to seal the apparatuscontents against the weather.
 37. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein thefirst and second flange-faces each have a continuous groove about theperimeter of the first and second partial-shells, the respective groovesdefining a closed channel in the flange-face abutment.
 38. The apparatusof claim 37, wherein the electromagnetic interference seal is disposedin the closed channel.
 39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein theelectromagnetic interference seal is weatherproof and weather sealingand is adapted to seal the apparatus contents against the weather. 40.An apparatus for containing objects, the apparatus comprising: first andsecond heat-conducting partial-shells having first and second faces,respectively, the first and second faces abutting each other; at leastone object thermally coupled to either the first or secondpartial-shell; a seal adapted to seal the apparatus contents againstelectromagnetic interference; a thermally conducting material adapted toincrease heat transfer between the first and second heat-conductingpartial-shells; and a scal adapted to seal the apparatus contents, theelectromagnetic-interference seal, and the thermally conducting materialagainst the weather.
 41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein thepartial-shells are selectively secured to each other.
 42. The apparatusof claim 41, wherein the partial-shells are pivotally attached to eachother.
 43. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the thermally conductingmaterial is adapted to increase the heat transfer between thepartial-shells by increasing thermal contact between the first andsecond faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second faces exteriorly of the electromagnetic-interferenceseal and interiorly of the weather-seal.
 44. The apparatus of claim 40,further comprising a thermally conducting material adapted to increasethermal contact between the first and second faces, the thermallyconducting material sandwiched between the first and second facesinteriorly of the electromagnetic-interference seal.
 45. The apparatusof claim 40, wherein the first and second faces each have continuousfirst and second grooves about the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells, the second grooves of the respective faces locatedexteriorly of the first grooves, the first grooves and second groovesdefining first and second closed channels in the abutment, respectively,the second closed channel located exteriorly of the first closedchannel.
 46. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the electromagneticinterference seal is disposed in the first closed channel.
 47. Theapparatus of claim 46, wherein the weather seal is disposed in thesecond closed channel.
 48. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprisingfirst and second flanges about the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells, respectively, wherein the first and second flanges havefirst and second faces, respectively, wherein the first and secondflange-faces are co-planer with and extend the first and secondpartial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly of the partial-shells,wherein the first and second flange-faces abut each other.
 49. Theapparatus of claim 48, wherein the thermally conducting material isadapted to increase the heat transfer between the partial-shells byincreasing thermal contact between the first and second flange-faces,the thermally conducting material sandwiched between the first andsecond flange-faces exteriorly of the electromagnetic-interference sealand interiorly of the weather-seal.
 50. The apparatus of claim 48,further comprising a thermally conducting material adapted to increasethermal contact between the first and second partial-shell-faces and thefirst and second flange-faces or between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces or the first and second flange-faces, the thermallyconducting material sandwiched between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces and the first and second-flange-faces or between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces interiorly of the electromagnetic-interference seal. 51.The apparatus of claim 48, wherein the first and secondpartial-shell-faces each have a continuous groove about the perimeter ofthe first and second partial-shells, the respective grooves defining aclosed channel in the partial-shell abutment.
 52. The apparatus of claim51, wherein the electromagnetic interference seal is disposed in thepartial-shell closed channel.
 53. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein thefirst and second flange-faces each have a continuous groove about theperimeter of the first and second partial-shells, the respective groovesdefining a closed channel in the flange-face abutment, the flange-faceclosed channel exterior to the partial-shell closed channel.
 54. Theapparatus of claim 53, wherein the weather-seal is disposed in theflange-face closed channel.
 55. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein theflange-faces each have continuous first and second grooves about theperimeter of the first and second partial-shells, the second grooves ofthe respective flange-faces located exteriorly of the first grooves, thefirst grooves and second grooves defining first and second closedchannels in the flange-face abutment, respectively, the second closedchannel located exteriorly of the first closed channel.
 56. Theapparatus of claim 55, wherein the electromagnetic interference seal isdisposed in the first closed channel.
 57. The apparatus of claim 56,wherein the weather-seal is disposed in the second closed channel. 58.An apparatus for containing objects, the apparatus comprising: a pair offirst and second heat-conducting partial-shells having first and secondfaces, respectively, the first and second faces abutting each other; atleast one object thermally coupled to either the first or secondpartial-shell; a pair of abutting seals each adapted to seal theapparatus contents against electromagnetic interference; and aweatherproof, weather-sealing thermally conducting material adapted toincrease heat transfer between the first and second heat-conductingpartial-shells and adapted to protect the apparatus contents and thepair of abutting electromagnetic-interference seals from the weather.59. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the partial-shells areselectively secured to each other.
 60. The apparatus of claim 59,wherein the partial-shells are pivotally attached to each other.
 61. Theapparatus of claim 58, wherein the weatherproof, weather-sealing,thermally conducting material is adapted to increase the heat transferbetween the partial-shells by increasing thermal contact between thefirst and second faces, the thermally conducting material sandwichedbetween the first and second faces exteriorly of theelectromagnetic-interference seals.
 62. The apparatus of claim 58,further comprising a thermally conducting material adapted to increasethermal contact between the first and second faces, the thermallyconducting material sandwiched between the first and second facesinteriorly of the electromagnetic-interference seals.
 63. The apparatusof claim 62, wherein the first and second faces each have a continuousgroove about the perimeter of the first and second partial-shells, therespective grooves defining a closed channel in the abutment.
 64. Theapparatus of claim 63, wherein the electromagnetic-interference sealsare disposed in the closed channel.
 65. The apparatus of claim 58,further comprising first and second flanges about the perimeter of thefirst and second partial-shells, respectively, wherein the first andsecond flanges have first and second faces, respectively, wherein thefirst and second flange-faces are co-planer with and extend the firstand second partial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly of thepartial-shells, wherein the first and second flange-faces abut eachother.
 66. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the weatherproof, weathersealing thermally conducting material is adapted to increase the heattransfer between the partial-shells by increasing thermal contactbetween the first and second flange-faces, the thermally conductingmaterial sandwiched between the first and second flange-faces exteriorlyof the electromagnetic-interference seals.
 67. The apparatus of claim65, further comprising a thermally conducting material adapted toincrease thermal contact between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces or between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces and the first and secondflange-faces or between the first and second partial-shell-faces or thefirst and second flange-faces interiorly of theelectromagnetic-interference seals.
 68. The apparatus of claim 65,wherein the first and second partial-shell-faces each have a continuousgroove about the perimeter of the first and second partial-shells, therespective grooves defining a closed channel in the partial-shellabutment.
 69. The apparatus of claim 68, wherein the electromagneticinterference seals are disposed in the closed channel.
 70. The apparatusof claim 65, wherein the first and second flange-faces each have acontinuous groove about the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells, the respective grooves defining a closed channel in theflange-face abutment.
 71. The apparatus of claim 70, wherein theelectromagnetic interference seals are disposed in the closed channel.72. An apparatus for containing objects, the apparatus comprising: apair of first and second heat-conducting partial-shells having first andsecond faces, respectively, the first and second faces abutting eachother; at least one heated object thermally coupled to either the firstor second partial-shell; a pair of weatherproof, weather-sealingabutting seals adapted to seal the apparatus contents againstelectromagnetic interference and the weather; and a weatherproofthermally conducting material adapted to increase heat transfer betweenthe first and second heat-conducting partial-shells.
 73. The apparatusof claim 72, wherein the partial-shells are selectively secured to eachother.
 74. The apparatus of claim 73, wherein the partial-shells arepivotally attached to each other.
 75. The apparatus of claim 72, whereinthe weatherproof thermally conducting material is adapted to increasethe heat transfer between the partial-shells by increasing thermalcontact between the first and second faces, the thermally conductingmaterial sandwiched between the first and second faces exteriorly of theweatherproof, weather-sealing electromagnetic-interference seals. 76.The apparatus of claim 72, further comprising a thermally conductingmaterial adapted to increase thermal contact between the first andsecond faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second faces interiorly of the weatherproof, weather-sealingelectromagnetic-interference seals.
 77. The apparatus of claim 72,wherein the first and second faces each have a continuous groove aboutthe perimeter of the first and second partial-shells, the respectivegrooves defining a closed channel in the abutment.
 78. The apparatus ofclaim 77, wherein the weatherproof, weather-sealing electromagneticinterference seals are disposed in the closed channel.
 79. The apparatusof claim 72, further comprising first and second flanges about theperimeter of the first and second partial-shells, respectively, whereinthe first and second flanges have first and second faces, respectively,wherein the first and second flange-faces are co-planer with and extendthe first and second partial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly ofthe partial-shells, wherein the first and second flange-faces abut eachother.
 80. The apparatus of claim 79, wherein the weatherproof thermallyconducting material is adapted to increase the heat transfer between thepartial-shells by increasing thermal contact between the first andsecond flange-faces, the thermally conducting material sandwichedbetween the first and second flange-faces exteriorly of theweatherproof, weather-sealing electromagnetic-interference seals. 81.The apparatus of claim 79, further comprising a thermally conductingmaterial adapted to increase thermal contact between the first andsecond partial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces orbetween the first and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces, the thermally conducting material sandwiched between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces and the first and secondflange-faces or between the first and second partial-shell-faces or thefirst and second flange-faces interiorly of the weatherproof,weather-sealing electromagnetic-interference seals.
 82. The apparatus ofclaim 79, wherein the first and second partial-shell-faces each have acontinuous groove about the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells, the respective grooves defining a closed channel in thepartial-shell abutment.
 83. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein theweatherproof, weather-sealing electromagnetic interference seals aredisposed in the closed channel.
 84. The apparatus of claim 79, whereinthe first and second flange-faces each have a continuous groove aboutthe perimeter of the first and second partial-shells, the respectivegrooves defining a closed channel in the flange-face abutment.
 85. Theapparatus of claim 84, wherein the weatherproof, weather-sealingelectromagnetic interference seals are disposed in the flange-faceclosed channel.
 86. A method for manufacturing an apparatus forcontaining objects, the method comprising: forming first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells, having first and second faces,respectively; attaching at least one object to either the first orsecond partial-shell for thermal contact therebetween; forming a housingby butting the first and second faces together; and enhancing heattransfer between the first and second heat-conducting partial-shells.87. The method of claim 86, further comprising providing for selectivelysecuring the first and second heat conducting partial-shells together.88. The method of claim 87, further comprising connecting the first andsecond partial-shells so that the first and second partial-shells pivotabout a common axis.
 89. The method of claim 86, wherein enhancing theheat transfer is accomplished by disposing a conformable thermallyconducting material between the first and second faces to increase thethermal contact between the respective faces.
 90. The method of claim86, wherein enhancing the heat transfer is accomplished by disposing aweatherproof conformable thermally conducting material between the firstand second faces to increase the thermal contact between the respectivefaces.
 91. The method of claim 86, wherein enhancing the heat transferfurther comprises sealing the housing against the weather and is carriedout by disposing a weatherproof, weather-sealing conformable thermallyconducting material between the first and second faces to increase thethermal contact between the respective faces.
 92. The method of claim 86further comprising sealing the housing against electromagneticinterference by disposing an electromagnetic-interference seal betweenthe first and second faces.
 93. The method of claim 86 furthercomprising sealing the housing against electromagnetic interference andthe weather by disposing a weatherproof, weather sealingelectromagnetic-interference seal between the first and second faces.94. The method of claim 86, wherein forming the first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells includes forming first and second flangesabout the perimeters of the first and second heat-conductingpartial-shells, respectively, the first and second flanges having firstand second faces, respectively, wherein the first and secondflange-faces are co-planer with and extend the first and secondpartial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly of the partial-shells. 95.The method of claim 94, wherein enhancing the heat transfer isaccomplished by disposing a conformable thermally conducting materialbetween both the first and second partial-shell-faces and the first andsecond flange-faces to increase the thermal contact between therespective faces.
 96. The method of claim 94, wherein enhancing the heattransfer is accomplished by disposing a weatherproof conformablethermally conducting material between both the first and secondpartial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces to increasethe thermal contact between the respective faces.
 97. The method ofclaim 94, wherein enhancing the heat transfer further comprises sealingthe housing against the weather and is carried out by disposing aweatherproof, weather-sealing conformable thermally conducting materialbetween both the first and second partial-shell-faces and the first andsecond flange-faces to increase the thermal contact between therespective faces.
 98. The method of claim 94 further comprising sealingthe housing against electromagnetic interference by disposing anelectromagnetic-interference seal between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces or the first and second flange-faces.
 99. The methodof claim 94 further comprising sealing the housing againstelectromagnetic interference and the weather by disposing aweatherproof, weather sealing electromagnetic-interference seal betweenthe first and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces.
 100. A method for manufacturing an apparatus forcontaining objects, the method comprising: forming first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells having first and second faces,respectively; forming at least one continuous groove in the first andsecond faces around the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells; attaching at least one object to either the first orsecond partial-shell for thermal contact therebetween; forming a housingby butting the first and second faces together, whereby aligning therespective grooves to form at least one continuous channel in theabutment; sealing the housing against electromagnetic interference;enhancing the heat transfer between the first and second heat-conductingshells; and sealing the housing against the weather.
 101. The method ofclaim 100, further comprising providing for selectively securing thefirst and second heat conducting partial-shells together.
 102. Themethod of claim 101, further comprising connecting the first and secondpartial-shells so that the first and second partial-shells pivot about acommon axis.
 103. The method of claim 100, wherein forming each of thegrooves is carried out using a single tool setup.
 104. The method ofclaim 100, wherein sealing against electromagnetic interference isaccomplished by disposing an electromagnetic-interference-seal in thechannel.
 105. The method of claim 100, wherein sealing againstelectromagnetic interference is accomplished by disposing a pair ofabutting electromagnetic-interference-seals in the channel.
 106. Themethod of claim 100, wherein sealing against electromagneticinterference and sealing against the weather is accomplished bydisposing a weatherproof, weather sealingelectromagnetic-interference-seal in the channel.
 107. The method ofclaim 100, wherein sealing against electromagnetic interference andsealing against the weather is accomplished by disposing a pair ofweatherproof, weather sealing abuttingelectromagnetic-interference-seals in the channel.
 108. The method ofclaim 100, wherein enhancing the heat transfer is carried out bydisposing a weatherproof conformable thermally conducting materialbetween the first and second faces exteriorly of the channel to increasethe thermal contact between the respective faces.
 109. The method ofclaim 100, wherein enhancing the heat transfer and sealing against theweather is carried out by disposing a weatherproof, weather sealingconformable thermally conducting material between the first and secondfaces exteriorly of the channel to increase the thermal contact betweenthe respective faces.
 110. The method of claim 100, wherein enhancingthe heat transfer is carried out by disposing a conformable thermallyconducting material between the first and second faces interiorly of thechannel to increase the thermal contact between the respective faces.111. The method of claim 100, wherein forming the first and secondheat-conducting shells includes forming first and second flanges aboutthe perimeters of the first and second heat-conducting shells,respectively, the first and second flanges having first and secondfaces, respectively, wherein the first and second flange-faces areco-planer with and extend the first and second partial-shell-faces,respectively, exteriorly of the first and second partial-shells. 112.The method of claim 111, wherein enhancing the heat transfer is carriedout by disposing a weatherproof conformable thermally conductingmaterial between the first and second partial-shell-faces and the firstand second flange-faces or between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces or the first and second flange-faces exteriorly ofthe channel to increase the thermal contact between the faces.
 113. Themethod of claim 112, wherein enhancing the heat transfer and sealingagainst the weather is carried out by disposing a weatherproof, weathersealing conformable thermally conducting material between the first andsecond partial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces orbetween the first and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces exteriorly of the channel to increase the thermal contactbetween the faces.
 114. A method for manufacturing an apparatus forcontaining objects, the method comprising: forming first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells having first and second faces,respectively; forming first and second flanges about the perimeters ofthe first and second heat-conducting shells, respectively, the first andsecond flanges having first and second faces, respectively, wherein thefirst and second flange-faces are co-planer with and extend the firstand second partial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly of the firstand second partial-shells; forming at least one continuous groove in thefirst and second flange-faces around the perimeter of the first andsecond partial-shells; attaching at least one object to either the firstor second partial-shell for thermal contact therebetween; forming ahousing by butting the first and second faces and first and secondflange-faces together, whereby aligning the respective grooves to format least one continuous channel in the flange-face abutment; sealing thehousing against electromagnetic interference; enhancing the heattransfer between the first and second heat-conducting shells; andsealing the housing against the weather.
 115. The method of claim 114,further comprising providing for selectively securing the first andsecond heat conducting partial-shells together.
 116. The method of claim115, further comprising connecting the first and second partial-shellsso that the first and second partial-shells pivot about a common axis.117. The method of claim 114, wherein forming each of the grooves iscarried out using a single tool setup.
 118. The method of claim 114,wherein sealing against electromagnetic interference is accomplished bydisposing an electromagnetic-interference-seal in the channel.
 119. Themethod of claim 114, wherein sealing against electromagneticinterference is accomplished by disposing a pair of abuttingelectromagnetic-interference-seals in the channel.
 120. The method ofclaim 114, wherein sealing against electromagnetic interference andsealing against the weather is accomplished by disposing a weatherproof,weather sealing electromagnetic-interference-seal in the channel. 121.The method of claim 114, wherein sealing against electromagneticinterference and sealing against the weather is accomplished bydisposing a pair of weatherproof, weather sealing abuttingelectromagnetic-interference-seals in the channel.
 122. The method ofclaim 114, wherein enhancing the heat transfer is carried out bydisposing a weatherproof conformable thermally conducting materialbetween the first and second flange-faces exteriorly of the channel toincrease the thermal contact between the respective faces.
 123. Themethod of claim 114, wherein enhancing the heat transfer and sealingagainst the weather is carried out by disposing a weatherproof, weathersealing conformable thermally conducting material between the first andsecond faces exteriorly of the channel to increase the thermal contactbetween the respective faces.
 124. The method of claim 114, whereinenhancing the heat transfer is carried out by disposing a conformablethermally conducting material between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces or between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces interiorly of the channel to increase the thermal contactbetween the faces.
 125. A method for manufacturing an apparatus forcontaining objects, the method comprising: forming first and secondheat-conducting partial-shells having first and second faces,respectively; forming at least one continuous first groove in the firstand second faces around the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells; forming at least one continuous second groove in thefirst and second faces exterior to the respective first grooves aroundthe perimeter of the first and second partial-shells; attaching at leastone object to either the first or second partial-shell for thermalcontact therebetween; forming a housing by butting the first and secondfaces together, whereby aligning the respective first grooves to form atleast one continuous first channel in the abutment and aligning therespective second grooves to form at least one continuous second channelin the abutment exteriorly of the first; sealing the housing againstelectromagnetic interference; enhancing the heat transfer between thefirst and second heat-conducting shells; and sealing the housing againstthe weather.
 126. The method of claim 125, further comprising providingfor selectively securing the first and second heat conductingpartial-shells together.
 127. The method of claim 126, furthercomprising connecting the first and second partial-shells so that thefirst and second partial-shells pivot about a common axis.
 128. Themethod of claim 126, wherein forming each of the first grooves iscarried out using a single tool setup.
 129. The method of claim 126,wherein forming each of the second grooves is carried out using a singletool setup.
 130. The method of claim 126, wherein sealing againstelectromagnetic interference is accomplished by disposing anelectromagnetic-interference-seal in the first channel.
 131. The methodof claim 126, wherein sealing against the weather is accomplished bydisposing a weather-seal in the second channel.
 132. The method of claim126, wherein enhancing the heat transfer is carried out by disposing aconformable thermally conducting material exteriorly of the firstchannel and interiorly of the second channel to increase the thermalcontact between the respective faces.
 133. A method for manufacturing anapparatus for containing objects, the method comprising: forming firstand second heat-conducting partial-shells having first and second faces,respectively; forming first and second flanges about the perimeters ofthe first and second heat-conducting shells, respectively, the first andsecond flanges having first and second faces, respectively, wherein thefirst and second flange-faces are co-planer with and extend the firstand second partial-shell-faces, respectively, exteriorly of the firstand second partial-shells; forming at least one continuous first groovein the first and second flange-faces around the perimeter of the firstand second partial-shells; attaching at least one object to either thefirst or second partial-shell for thermal contact therebetween; forminga housing by butting the first and second partial-shells together,whereby aligning the respective grooves to form at least one continuousfirst channel in the flange-face abutment; sealing the housing againstelectromagnetic interference; enhancing the heat transfer between thefirst and second heat-conducting shells; and sealing the housing againstthe weather.
 134. The method of claim 133, further comprising providingfor selectively securing the first and second heat conductingpartial-shells together.
 135. The method of claim 134, furthercomprising connecting the first and second partial-shells so that thefirst and second partial-shells pivot about a common axis.
 136. Themethod of claim 133, wherein forming each of the grooves is carried outusing a single tool setup.
 137. The method of claim 133, wherein sealingagainst the weather is accomplished by disposing a weather-seal in thefirst channel.
 138. The method of claim 133 further comprising formingat least one continuous second groove in the first and secondpartial-shell-faces around the perimeter of the first and secondpartial-shells, wherein when the first and second partial shells arebutted together, the respective second grooves are aligned and form atleast one continuous second channel in the partial-shell-face abutment.139. The method of claim 138, wherein forming each of the second groovesis carried out using a single tool setup.
 140. The method of claim 138,wherein sealing against electromagnetic interference is accomplished bydisposing an electromagnetic-interference-seal in the second channel.141. The method of claim 138, wherein enhancing the heat transfer iscarried out by disposing a conformable thermally conducting materialbetween the first and second partial-shell-faces and the first andsecond flange-faces or between the first and second partial-shell-facesor the first and second flange-faces interiorly of the first channel andexteriorly of the second channel to increase the thermal contact betweenthe faces.
 142. The method of claim 138, wherein enhancing the heattransfer is carried out by disposing a conformable thermally conductingmaterial between the first and second partial-shell-faces interiorly ofthe second channel to increase the thermal contact between the faces.143. The method of claim 133 further comprising forming at least onecontinuous second groove in the first and second flange-faces around theperimeter of the first and second partial-shells, wherein when the firstand second partial shells are butted together, the respective secondgrooves are aligned and form at least one continuous second channel inthe flange-face abutment.
 144. The method of claim 143, wherein formingeach of the second grooves is carried out using a single tool setup.145. The method of claim 143, wherein sealing against electromagneticinterference is accomplished by disposing anelectromagnetic-interference-seal in the second channel.
 146. The methodof claim 143, wherein enhancing the heat transfer is carried out bydisposing a conformable thermally conducting material between the firstand second the first and second flange-faces interiorly of the firstchannel and exteriorly of the second channel to increase the thermalcontact between the faces.
 147. The method of claim 143, whereinenhancing the heat transfer is carried out by disposing a conformablethermally conducting material between the first and secondpartial-shell-faces and the first and second flange-faces or between thefirst and second partial-shell-faces or the first and secondflange-faces interiorly of the second channel to increase the thermalcontact between the faces.